VZCZCXRO9544
RR RUEHBZ RUEHDU RUEHGI RUEHJO RUEHMR RUEHRN
DE RUEHKI #0168 0461341
ZNR UUUUU ZZH
R 151341Z FEB 08
FM AMEMBASSY KINSHASA
TO RUEHC/SECSTATE WASHDC 7547
INFO RUEHXR/RWANDA COLLECTIVE
RUCNSAD/SOUTHERN AF DEVELOPMENT COMMUNITY COLLECTIVE
RHMFISS/HQ USEUCOM VAIHINGEN GE
RUZEJAA/JAC MOLESWORTH RAF MOLESWORTH UK
RUEAIIA/CIA WASHDC
RHEFDIA/DIA WASHDC
UNCLAS KINSHASA 000168
SIPDIS
SIPDIS
E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: PGOV PREL MARR SOCI KJUS CG
SUBJECT: DIILS wraps up first round of training in prosecution and
investigation of sex crimes
REF: KINSHASA 89
1. A/DCM took part in closing ceremonies for graduates of Defense
Institute of International Legal Studies (DIILS) training February 8
at the Higher Military Training Institute (GESM). The event was the
capstone of a program designed to bolster the capacity of Congolese
military justice officials to investigate and prosecute sex crimes
(reftel). Defense Minister Chikez Diemu delivered remarks
highlighting the DRC government's commitment to the fight against
sexual violence.
2. The training was part of the inaugural DIILS program in the DRC,
consisting of courses in Kisangani and Matadi as well as Kinshasa.
The second round of courses is scheduled for May 2008 in other areas
of the country.
3. Colonel Dominic McAlea of MONUC's Rule of Law Unit, who was
closely involved in the program, told Emboffs the training was
"great bang for the buck." He cited the almost complete lack of
equipment and prior instruction for Congolese military investigators
and prosecutors, and noted that journalists had asked him when this
type of program would be available to civilian officials.
4. Comment: DIILS' current $500,000 funding will end with the
second round of classes in May. Embassy strongly recommends
continued funding of this program, which has been enthusiastically
received by its managers and students, as well as by the Congolese
press. End comment.
GARVELINK